Effect of methaqualone on plasma corticosterone in rats: possible sites of action.

Methaqualone produces large increases in plasma corticosterone in rats. This effect does not involve a direct stimulation of either the adrenal glands or pituitary, nor is it the result of a significant alteration in the clearance of circulating corticosterone. Methaqualone may therefore be influencing brain mechanisms which ultimately regulate hypothalamic CRH secretion, although a peripheral site of action has not yet been ruled out.